Al Roker’s Heartfelt Pride Month Gift to Rachel Maddow: “Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn”

In a world where media narratives are often loud and divisive, a quiet and powerful act of kindness has emerged, reminding us all of the impact of authentic storytelling and empathy. Al Roker, beloved weatherman and longtime NBC personality, has created a gift that resonates deeply with the LGBTQ+ community at MSNBC and beyond. His heartfelt tribute, Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn, a documentary film celebrating the courage of MSNBC’s LGBTQ staff—including Rachel Maddow—has left a profound impact, not only on those featured but also on the entire community.

A Thoughtful Tribute to Courage and Authenticity

In the vibrant halls of MSNBC, where voices of truth and diversity echo, Pride Month 2025 started with a quiet disappointment for Rachel Maddow. Known for her incisive political commentary and tireless advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community, Maddow felt a noticeable shift in the atmosphere this year. The usual outpouring of well-wishes and acknowledgment from her colleagues was absent, leaving Maddow wondering if her influence had diminished as her career evolved.

But unbeknownst to her, a profound gift was in the works—a tribute that would not only surprise Maddow but remind her of the deep respect and admiration she commands in the workplace. Al Roker, whose presence on NBC has been synonymous with warmth and trust, was about to give Maddow a gift that transcended a simple token of appreciation: a documentary film that would capture the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ community at NBC, with a special focus on Malcolm Kenyatta, a trailblazing Black, gay politician.

Roker’s Dedication: A Labor of Love

The documentary, titled Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn, was born out of Roker’s dedication to uplifting the voices of those who have fought tirelessly for authenticity and acceptance. As a producer and storyteller, Roker’s behind-the-scenes work on this film wasn’t just a professional project; it was a deeply personal journey.

The film centers on Malcolm Kenyatta, a Pennsylvania state representative, whose own story of perseverance and authenticity mirrors the struggles many at NBC have faced to live unapologetically. Roker saw the parallels between Kenyatta’s journey and the experiences of MSNBC’s LGBTQ staff, many of whom, like Maddow, have endured personal and professional battles to carve out their place in a world that often demands conformity.

The film’s narrative weaves together interviews, archival footage, and intimate reflections, creating a tapestry of courage that celebrates those who dare to live openly. For Roker, it was more than just a film—it was a tribute to his colleagues and a powerful reminder that every person’s story, no matter how small or big, deserves to be told.

The Surprise Screening: A Moment of Unity and Reflection

The film was unveiled during a special screening event at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, where the NBC family, unaware of the emotional weight of the moment, gathered. As the lights dimmed, Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn began to play. The room, filled with staff, was soon captivated by the documentary’s powerful message.

For Rachel Maddow, the film struck a deeply personal chord. As a prominent lesbian figure in media, Maddow’s own struggles were mirrored in the film’s narrative, leaving her both humbled and affirmed by the stories of perseverance and triumph. The film’s message—that every individual’s truth is worth fighting for—resonated profoundly with her.

Roker, who attended the screening, addressed the room before the film began, simply stating, “This is for all of you who show up every day as your true selves. Your courage inspires us all.” The applause that followed was a testament to the emotional depth of Roker’s gift. For Maddow, the gesture was one of the most meaningful she had ever received. “This is not just a gift,” she later shared, “It’s a reminder of the impact we have on each other, and of how much our voices matter.”

A Collaborative Effort: The Making of a Masterpiece

The creation of Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn was a collaborative effort between Al Roker Entertainment, Seven Knots Film & Media, and Xpedition, with Roker overseeing every aspect of production. From script revisions to the final cut, Roker’s hands-on approach ensured that the authenticity of the stories being told was preserved. His late-night calls with directors, his commitment to accuracy, and his emotional investment in the project revealed his dedication to the cause.

The film’s title, “Do Not Wait Your Turn,” is not just a call to action for Kenyatta but for all those who have faced challenges in the pursuit of equality and authenticity. For MSNBC’s LGBTQ staff, this message was especially poignant, as many, like Maddow, have faced scrutiny and bias in their careers, yet have remained steadfast in carving out spaces for their voices to be heard.

Roker’s Legacy: Thoughtfulness and Storytelling at Its Core

Over the years, Al Roker has earned a reputation as the “most thoughtful one” at NBC, quietly supporting colleagues and uplifting them through personal and professional challenges. His involvement in creating Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn showcases his deep commitment to integrity, empathy, and storytelling that heals, unites, and inspires. The documentary is a testament to Roker’s belief in the power of representation and allyship, and it’s a gift that will endure for years to come.

The impact of Roker’s thoughtful gift extends beyond NBC’s walls, sparking conversations about representation, resilience, and the importance of allyship. Through the documentary, Roker has given his colleagues not just a gift, but a legacy that celebrates their courage and the spaces they’ve carved out for themselves in the world of journalism and beyond.

A Ripple Effect of Kindness and Action

As the screening concluded, the room was filled with emotion, with staff members embracing and sharing their stories. The ripple effect of Roker’s kindness and the power of Kenyatta’s message has already begun to spread. Fans and colleagues have shared their gratitude for the thoughtful gesture, and many have been inspired to act—donating to LGBTQ+ charities and amplifying marginalized voices.

For Rachel Maddow, this gift was a reminder that her work matters—that she is seen and valued. It was a tribute to the strength of the LGBTQ community at NBC, and an affirmation of the role storytelling plays in bridging divides and sparking change.

Kenyatta: Do Not Wait Your Turn is more than a documentary—it is a celebration of identity, a tribute to courage, and a reminder that every person’s story deserves to be heard. For Maddow, the film was a timely and meaningful reminder of the power of authenticity and allyship—and for Al Roker, it’s another chapter in his incredible journey of using his platform to inspire and uplift those around him.

Through his thoughtful gesture, Roker has once again shown that storytelling can change the world, one frame at a time.